It's the return of our weekly look at the three performers climbing the ladder, and the three sliding down a snake. <strong>Kenwyne Jones, Stoke City </strong> The striker’s first goal in 28 Premier League appearances was somewhat overshadowed by Marouane Fellaini’s butt, but it was good news for the club, who have not had any issues defensively, but needed to be more clinical up front. <strong>Toure brothers, Manchester City</strong> The absence of the captain Vincent Kompany meant Kolo got a start in the centre of defence and younger brother Yaya, above, led the side. Both were exemplary in their duties, highlighting why Roberto Mancini will miss them when they are at the African Cup of Nations. <strong>Adel Taarabt, QPR </strong>Harry Redknapp sold the Moroccan when they were both at Tottenham – a decision he regretted. Reunited at QPR, Taarabt scored twice for his side's first league win in 17 attempts against Fulham. <strong>Stewart Downing, Liverpool </strong> The left winger was told last month he could leave the club but has since had chances in the side, albeit at left-back. It is unlikely Saturday’s performance will have made Brendan Rodgers change his mind. <strong>Fernando Torres, Chelsea </strong>Roman Abramovich removed Roberto Di Matteo to reunite the Spain striker with his former manager Rafa Benitez, but Torres is failing to repay the favour, missing three chances against Corinthians in the Club World Cup final on Sunday. <strong>Newcastle United strikers </strong>When Pappis Cisse is in form Demba Ba, below, is not, and when Ba is playing well Cisse is looking lost in front of goal. To ensure a top-half finish the two Senegalese strikers will need to find form together <em>And don’t forget our picks for this week’s Premier League team of the week below. Do you agree? Let us know:</em>
